Game of Thrones season 8: Predictions for the show’s major women

Carice van Houten. Photo: HBO

Melisandre

After what she did to Shireen back in season 5, Melisandre isn’t exactly a well-loved character from Game of Thrones. In fact, she’s probably the most disliked woman on this list after Cersei. Fans have predicted her demise over and over, and it’s possible that they’ll get to see it happen during the show’s final season.

The last time we see Melisandre, she’s leaving Westeros to go to Volantis. Now that Jon and Daenerys have met—and she’s “brought fire and ice together”—her part is done for the time being. However, when Varys suggests that Melisandre should not return to Westeros, she claims that she will. “I have to die in this strange country,” she tells him. “Just like you.”

Her words imply that she’s seen her own death in the flames—or if not her death, then something that she’s required to do before she dies. She doesn’t elaborate on why she must return to Westeros, but there seems to be some further purpose she’ll need to fulfill.

Some theories suggest that Melisandre has gone off to find aid for the war to come. She never alludes to doing this, but the series has shown other worshipers of the Red God outside of Westeros. Given that the series has made a point of introducing us to other Red Priestesses and members of Melisandre’s religion, it’s entirely possible she could return with an army to help defeat the Night King. Her fellow priestesses would likely sail North immediately if they believed Jon or Daenerys to be Azor Ahai.

It might be too much to hope for, but Melisandre does appear to care for the future of the realm—even if her means of ensuring it are often problematic. She might surprise fans by saving the day once again. After all, Jon wouldn’t even be here without her interference.

We’ll find out for certain what becomes of Game of Thrones‘ major women when the eighth season airs on April 14.